Derek passed away in the early hours of Nov. 27, 2024, at Victoria Hospice, from pancreatic cancer. He was in his 75th year.
Derek was born in West Ham, England and came to Canada with his family at age 7. Raised in Haney, BC, he joined the Army of the Canadian Armed Forces in 1968, where he served his whole career as a medic and physician assistant, achieving the rank of Warrant Officer. Derek served in many postings across Canada, as well as in Germany and Cyprus. Following his retirement, he joined the Corps of Commissionaires where he continued to work at CFB Esquimalt.
Derek is survived by his wife, Joan Locker, daughter Daniel Norman, in Petawawa, ON, son Kelsy Norman, in Calgary AB, 5 grandchildren, and sister Linda Norman in Kelowna BC. Predeceased by parents James and Iris Norman, and step-father Ross Heath.
A Memorial Service for Derek will be held Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. in Sequoia Gardens at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
29 Responses
Derek was a wonderful man, serious when he needed to be and fun the rest of the time. His sense of humour was fantastic and he loved to laugh! I so enjoyed working with him, but hanging out with him was a treat. I did a bike trip with him in Germany. Though I would not drive his speed on the autobahn, he would wait a few rest stops up the road for me. That’s just the kind of guy he was. I will sincerely miss meeting him for coffee! To Joan, Kelsy and the rest of the family, my sincere condolences.
Dear Joan and family,
Being a cousin in the UK we didn’t see much of each other after his move to Canada but always kept up with Derek’s and Linda’s news.
I am so sad for your loss Joan and send you our condolences and love.
By all of the wonderful thoughts other people have shared here just confirms what a lovely man Derek was.
RIP xxx
We are deeply saddened about the loss of our valued Team Member Derek. Our sympathies to the Norman family and to all those whose lives he touched.
Commissionaires – Victoria, the Islands and Yukon division
I’m am so deeply saddened to hear of Derek’s passing. He was truly a kind and caring soul, whose presence made the workplace feel like a second home. He always greeted me by name and with a smile, and would always laugh at my jokes, no matter how bad they were. He made everyone feel valued and appreciated. Derek’s memory will live on in the hearts of all that had the privilege of knowing him.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
With heartfelt sympathies,
My deepest condolences to Derek’s family, I share your sorrow.
Derek was a commissionaire at MARPACHQ where I worked for many years.
Derek was a kind & thoughtful person, always taking the time to see how I was doing & it truly brightened my day.
We talked often about our common interest in motorcycles & sent many pictures of our bikes & road trips back & forth which I thoroughly enjoyed.
More recently when my husband passed away unexpectedly, Derek reached out with a lovely comforting message that warmed my heart & gave me strength during a very difficult time.
I will miss you Derek, thank you for your wonderful friendship. RIP
Derek, you will always be in my heart. We were born cousins, but truly found each other later in life. Our time this year was so very special with you and Joan. Love you both very much. You were so loved and will be dearly missed. Sending love and condolences to Joan, Kelsey, Dan’iel and Linda xxxxxxxx
Joan and family, my sincerest condolences. Derek was a great friend who will be dearly missed. I always enjoyed sharing stories and laughs with him. Rest in peace my friend.
My heartfelt sympathies for his family, friends and comrades. R.I.P. Jumper, Fair Winds And Soft Landings.
Joan, Daniel, Kelsey and families
May the many memories you have bring you all comfort as you grieve.
Derek was a great friend and mentor. He was my first boss at Stad, as a newly minted Private I looked to him for my military guidance. Our paths crossed many times over the years. I had a great time being part of his pit crew in Haliburton, sharing laughs at PA conferences, and many meaningful conversations about life. He always loved to share stories about his children and how proud he was of them.
Rest in peace my friend.
Derek and I served, dispatched parachutists and deployed to Cyprus together, I was privileged to call him friend! My sincere condolences to his family and friends for our loss of this gentle yet fun bearded guy with the huge motorcycle. RIP Derek, the world is a lesser place without you. FWSL